Antihypertensive Medications
There are dozens of antihypertensive agents in use today. They can be grouped into eight different classifications: (1) alpha/beta-adrenergic blocking agents, (2) angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, (3) angiotensin IIreceptor antagonists, (4)antiadrenergic agents, (5) beta-adrenergic blocking agents, (6) calcium-channel blocking agents, (7) diuretics, and (8) vasodilators. The Table lists the generic and trade names of the drugs currently available in each classification, along with each drug's customary starting dosage and usual dosage range, as well as pertinent comments, if any.